Safety in learning self defense

We help people using a process of success based learning. During a workshop we work with your, rather than doing anything to you. We recognize that everyone is different and that not all techniques will work for everyone. We can adapt what we teach to meet the needs of any individual. All we ask is that you work with us to let us know what seems to be working or not working for you. We are very mindful of the physical safety of our participants and staff, and our safety record in terms of injuries is excellent.  

Many people are concerned about their emotional safety when learning self defense as well. Our experience is that in any given adult class at least some individuals will have been the victim(s) of an assault. Some people choose to be open about this in the class, but there is no expectation to do so. Since people do sometimes share highly personal experiences in class we all agree from the beginning that such information is strictly confidential and not discussed outside the class.

Some people may be afraid to take a self defense class because they think that it might re-awaken painful memories and thoughts that could overwhelm them. We at KIDPOWER are very aware of this. We are careful to structure our training in a way that is emotionally supportive and safe for all participants.

Although we are dealing with serious issues, the mood in the class is generally upbeat, positive, and empowering, while at the same time meeting people’s emotional needs wherever they are in the moment. We find that a great deal of emotional support is provided by other participants through a sense of camaraderie that develops in the class.

In many cases the participants who initially feel the most timid in the beginning are, by the end of the class, the hardest, most enthusiastic hitters! It is one of my favorite things to watch (and, as the padded instructor, to feel!)